20/02/2026
A beautiful lotus birth journey, supported here at Waterford Birth Centre 🌸🌿
A lotus birth is when the placenta and umbilical cord remain attached to baby until the cord naturally separates in its own time, allowing for an unhurried transition into life and honouring the deep connection between pēpi and their whenua.
For this Kurdish whānau, choosing a lotus birth was a deeply intentional part of their pregnancy and birth experience. Although this practice is not commonly offered in their home country, mum voiced that she would like to have a lotus birth and her wish was supported every step of the way by both her LMC and our team - reflecting our commitment to informed choice and respectful, individualised care for every family who walks through our doors.
Throughout this journey, the placenta was lovingly cared for using salt, coconut oil, and fragrant herbs, wrapped carefully as it dried. These images share the gentle progression from birth through to the final moment when baby’s cord naturally separated.
At Waterford, we honour that every whānau’s path looks different. Our role is to provide evidence-based information, support cultural practices, and walk alongside families as they make the choices that feel right for them 👣💗
📸 photos shared with love and consent